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Valrue #2
All the Shadows of Death
'YOU'RE LYING. YOU TAKE RISKS, AREN. DYING IS NOT WHAT YOU'RE AFRAID OF.'
One month ago, Sid Bha went to the KahnenKeep to appeal for the release of Mama Hidel and her women from the dungeons. He never came back.
Aren Bha, Sid's daughter, is done waiting. With Drax by her side, brimming with majikal power, Aren is determined to bring her father home. But she has learned a thing or two since her last attempt at being a heroine, and she knows there is every chance this could go wrong. Badly wrong.
But she is going to do it anyway.
The tumultuous second installment of the New Adult fantasy series, All the Shadows of Death continues Aren's story of mounting political tension, mystery, and danger. It is time to unleash the majik.
One month ago, Sid Bha went to the KahnenKeep to appeal for the release of Mama Hidel and her women from the dungeons. He never came back.
Aren Bha, Sid's daughter, is done waiting. With Drax by her side, brimming with majikal power, Aren is determined to bring her father home. But she has learned a thing or two since her last attempt at being a heroine, and she knows there is every chance this could go wrong. Badly wrong.
But she is going to do it anyway.
The tumultuous second installment of the New Adult fantasy series, All the Shadows of Death continues Aren's story of mounting political tension, mystery, and danger. It is time to unleash the majik.
- GenresFantasy
634 pages, Paperback
Published October 10, 2024
14 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
June 7, 2025
📚✨ Just finished the second installment of the Valrue Series and wow — what a ride!
This one was definitely a long read 😮💨 and had a noticeably slower pace compared to Book 1. But despite that, it remained incredibly engaging — dark, gritty, and full of depth. 🖤
Unlike the first book, where the characters’ stories were tightly woven together, this sequel takes a different approach. Each character follows their own independent path, and with the multiple POV format, it took me a little while to adjust. Switching between such distinct storylines was a bit challenging at first, but ultimately rewarding. 🔄📖
What really stood out was how the secondary characters from Book 1 stepped into the spotlight 🌟 It was so cool to see the world of Valrue expand and deepen through their perspectives.
The majik, the backstories, and the rich town history added such a unique flavor to the narrative. From the bustling city of Valrue to the mysterious Holu Mon and the fascinating Bhouli, every cultural element felt vivid and alive. 🌍✨
And that ending?! 😱 Total cliffhanger. I’m definitely in this for the long haul — I need to know what happens next!
This series is truly one-of-a-kind, with such a diverse cast of characters. I can’t wait to see how their stories unfold. 💫
This one was definitely a long read 😮💨 and had a noticeably slower pace compared to Book 1. But despite that, it remained incredibly engaging — dark, gritty, and full of depth. 🖤
Unlike the first book, where the characters’ stories were tightly woven together, this sequel takes a different approach. Each character follows their own independent path, and with the multiple POV format, it took me a little while to adjust. Switching between such distinct storylines was a bit challenging at first, but ultimately rewarding. 🔄📖
What really stood out was how the secondary characters from Book 1 stepped into the spotlight 🌟 It was so cool to see the world of Valrue expand and deepen through their perspectives.
The majik, the backstories, and the rich town history added such a unique flavor to the narrative. From the bustling city of Valrue to the mysterious Holu Mon and the fascinating Bhouli, every cultural element felt vivid and alive. 🌍✨
And that ending?! 😱 Total cliffhanger. I’m definitely in this for the long haul — I need to know what happens next!
This series is truly one-of-a-kind, with such a diverse cast of characters. I can’t wait to see how their stories unfold. 💫
November 30, 2024
ValRue Book Two: All The Shadows of Death is the second installment of Coley Taylor’s first New Adult fantasy series, and she continues to impress. This installment focuses more on the political and religious aspects of the storyline along with the deep-seated prejudices of the citizens of ValRue. It’ll pull you in and play with your heartstrings.
Aren runs into trouble and embarks on a journey. Jin begins to hone his majikal abilities, and we learn more about the different types, or expressions, of majik as they pertain to harnessing and power. There are some secondary characters that come to the forefront, as well, only adding to the richness of the plot.
This second installment has a few major reveals. For example, we find out what happened to Mandavar after leaving ValRue. And you may want to pay close attention to The Founding of Valrue (The Final Excerpt continued) for a possible theory regarding Jin’s apparition.
The seamless progression from ValRue Book One to Book Two speaks volumes about this author’s story development skills. My excitement only grows as I await the third installment of this series!
Aren runs into trouble and embarks on a journey. Jin begins to hone his majikal abilities, and we learn more about the different types, or expressions, of majik as they pertain to harnessing and power. There are some secondary characters that come to the forefront, as well, only adding to the richness of the plot.
This second installment has a few major reveals. For example, we find out what happened to Mandavar after leaving ValRue. And you may want to pay close attention to The Founding of Valrue (The Final Excerpt continued) for a possible theory regarding Jin’s apparition.
The seamless progression from ValRue Book One to Book Two speaks volumes about this author’s story development skills. My excitement only grows as I await the third installment of this series!
October 14, 2024
No Spoiler Review
I'm exhausted, in a good way!! I read Coley Taylor's debut, The Dark Side of Happiness (Valrue, Book One), and have just finished All The Shadows of Death (Valrue, Book Two)
It carries on from the cliffhanger in Book One.
The story and lore expand further, as does the physical world in which this tale is told. The twists and turns are plenty and kept me on my toes.
I found the characters grew as the story progressed, and I enjoyed how some of my favorites became more endearing, I'm talking about Aren, Wren, and Drax specifically. I became more invested in Jin and his squad of Krijen (soldiers) as the story progressed.
If you are a fan of dark fantasy, magik, lore, political power grabs, complex relationships, and a story told from the point of view of most powerful people to the lowliest in the land this book will definitely scratch that itch.
This book contains a map and glossary, which you will need.
Also contains violence,language, and mature themes
I'm exhausted, in a good way!! I read Coley Taylor's debut, The Dark Side of Happiness (Valrue, Book One), and have just finished All The Shadows of Death (Valrue, Book Two)
It carries on from the cliffhanger in Book One.
The story and lore expand further, as does the physical world in which this tale is told. The twists and turns are plenty and kept me on my toes.
I found the characters grew as the story progressed, and I enjoyed how some of my favorites became more endearing, I'm talking about Aren, Wren, and Drax specifically. I became more invested in Jin and his squad of Krijen (soldiers) as the story progressed.
If you are a fan of dark fantasy, magik, lore, political power grabs, complex relationships, and a story told from the point of view of most powerful people to the lowliest in the land this book will definitely scratch that itch.
This book contains a map and glossary, which you will need.
Also contains violence,language, and mature themes
October 15, 2024
The dark side of happiness (Book 1) and All the Shadows of Death (Book 2)
By Coley Taylor
A big thankyou to Coley Taylor for this read and for bringing this story to life.
These books have it all, multiple POVs from various characters, enemies to lovers, adventure galore as well as a vast range of hidden secrets and plot twists.
The story is set in a fantasy world where majik is not only dissuaded but has been criminalised. The guards strongly uphold the peace on behalf of a flawed government and egotistical head of government. However, nature has disappeared and the People are in poverty.
While very in depth and often violent, the plot flows well and I found I caught up and understood the details of the story world quite quickly. I particulay enjoyed the second book with its new additions POVs and the exceptional storylines.
Definitely worth a read for a unique story full of adventure!
By Coley Taylor
A big thankyou to Coley Taylor for this read and for bringing this story to life.
These books have it all, multiple POVs from various characters, enemies to lovers, adventure galore as well as a vast range of hidden secrets and plot twists.
The story is set in a fantasy world where majik is not only dissuaded but has been criminalised. The guards strongly uphold the peace on behalf of a flawed government and egotistical head of government. However, nature has disappeared and the People are in poverty.
While very in depth and often violent, the plot flows well and I found I caught up and understood the details of the story world quite quickly. I particulay enjoyed the second book with its new additions POVs and the exceptional storylines.
Definitely worth a read for a unique story full of adventure!
December 26, 2024
All the Shadows of Death, is the second book in Coley Taylor’s Valrue Series, and wow she has more than delivered!!
Taylor weaves a masterful tale that dives deeper into the lives of our MCs Aren, Wren, Jin, Drax, and The Great Kahn as they navigate their magical abilities, unrequited and lost loves and political sensibilities. This is all done across multiple POVs with deep, rich backstories which are seamlessly crafted, pulling you into their world across various timelines.
In this sequel the expansion of their physical world was a fabulous addition as it brings with it an introduction of exciting new threats and allies—who can they trust?
With twists, morally grey characters, majik, political intrigue, back-stabbing and harnessing to the point of turning ~ this book has it all! It’s a rollercoaster of plans, plots, and danger that keeps you turning the pages.
If you’re looking for an enthralling fantasy read, this series is a must!
Taylor weaves a masterful tale that dives deeper into the lives of our MCs Aren, Wren, Jin, Drax, and The Great Kahn as they navigate their magical abilities, unrequited and lost loves and political sensibilities. This is all done across multiple POVs with deep, rich backstories which are seamlessly crafted, pulling you into their world across various timelines.
In this sequel the expansion of their physical world was a fabulous addition as it brings with it an introduction of exciting new threats and allies—who can they trust?
With twists, morally grey characters, majik, political intrigue, back-stabbing and harnessing to the point of turning ~ this book has it all! It’s a rollercoaster of plans, plots, and danger that keeps you turning the pages.
If you’re looking for an enthralling fantasy read, this series is a must!
November 10, 2024
Thank you to the author for once again, delivering. This book is written from multiple POV's, has great character development, and with complex and unexpected storylines.
I thought I wouldn't like this more than book 1 going into reading this and I was so wrong. I could not put this book down, it is gripping, especially in the last 60% of the book.
Best thing: incredible world building. If you enjoy being immersed in unique worlds, this is your book. Read book 1 first obviously, but book 2 builds.
Most surprising thing: Character arc's - no spoilers, but my favorite character has changed.
Negatives: No book 3 - although the story is still good on it's own and the author has been relatively quick to release the second book following the first.
I thought I wouldn't like this more than book 1 going into reading this and I was so wrong. I could not put this book down, it is gripping, especially in the last 60% of the book.
Best thing: incredible world building. If you enjoy being immersed in unique worlds, this is your book. Read book 1 first obviously, but book 2 builds.
Most surprising thing: Character arc's - no spoilers, but my favorite character has changed.
Negatives: No book 3 - although the story is still good on it's own and the author has been relatively quick to release the second book following the first.
October 18, 2024
This book is a fantastic sequel! Getting to see multiple POVs and experiencing the events from different characters and how they think and feel is great.
The world building and getting new areas to learn about is done so well and getting to know the history of the world we have entered in more detail makes for an interesting read.
The development of the characters themselves, the choices that they make, and the relationships between characters makes it feel all the more real.
I cannot wait to see where this continues to go!
The world building and getting new areas to learn about is done so well and getting to know the history of the world we have entered in more detail makes for an interesting read.
The development of the characters themselves, the choices that they make, and the relationships between characters makes it feel all the more real.
I cannot wait to see where this continues to go!
October 3, 2024
This was a strong continuation from the first book…I thoroughly enjoyed it. You get the pov’s of multiple characters who are all written beautifully. My favorite scenes were with Aren & Wren! You do get more background of Valrue in this book which I appreciated! The world building is epic and the action is a lot of fun! This story definitely played with my stress and feelings lol. Thank you Coley for the opportunity to read this gem as an arc! 🩵
November 25, 2024
4.5 stars! All the Shadows of Death is an amazing sequel of the Valrue Series! I found this book to be just as good as the first, if not a little better!
You continue to follow Aren and Jins journeys as well as multiple POVs, introducing more characters and delving deeper into this magical world.
There are plenty of twists and turns with the characters that keep you guessing what will happen in the end.
I highly recommend this dark fantasy series!
You continue to follow Aren and Jins journeys as well as multiple POVs, introducing more characters and delving deeper into this magical world.
There are plenty of twists and turns with the characters that keep you guessing what will happen in the end.
I highly recommend this dark fantasy series!
November 30, 2024
Book #2 in the Valrue series and WOW! This is my favorite one so far! The story is so intense and kept me on the edge of my seat. There is so much important things to the story discovered and explained. So many questions answered and so many new questions. We really get to know thr characters even better and I became even more invested in their journey. The end just proved there is so much story left to be told! I can't wait!
November 30, 2024
No spoilers in this review, but readers beware that you are in for a roller coaster ride! Book 2 was even more entertaining than Book 1 if that’s even possible.
I really enjoyed the tid bits of information relayed again in Book 2 from the different perspectives as you:
1-remember what happened in Book 1, but also
2-it’s nice to see the characters understand information and the story comes together.
You’re in for a real treat with some very interesting perspectives and storylines.
I really enjoyed the tid bits of information relayed again in Book 2 from the different perspectives as you:
1-remember what happened in Book 1, but also
2-it’s nice to see the characters understand information and the story comes together.
You’re in for a real treat with some very interesting perspectives and storylines.
October 7, 2024
This is a stellar follow-up to the previous book. The character development is detailed and unique, using multi-POV to not only build tension and run parallel plots, but to demonstrate unreliable narrators and the wildly different perspectives of characters. The world building is *chefs kiss*. Coley cranked it up to 11. I am obsessed and ravenously waiting for the third book.
November 21, 2024
Loved this!! Valrue Book 2 really kept me on my toes. The fantastic world building grew from Book 1, with the backstory and history of Valrue. I loved the character developments. And I always love reading a book in multi POV as you get to see things from different character’s perspectives.
February 2, 2025
Definitely liked this one a lot better than the first!! And I need book 3 like right now cause what?!?!
March 2, 2025
This second book in the Valrue series was just as good as the first. It continues Aren and Jin’s stories, as well as a few other characters. Coley’s skill at world building continues in this book, as she introduces us to new lands, and gives us more backstory on how Valrue came to be. Secondary characters from book one became loved characters in this book, and loved characters became not so loved, which threw me off balance. I hate seeing a beloved character turn bad. I sure hope they redeem themselves.
With lots of action, new characters, new lands, and the continuation of a great story line, this book delivers. I’m really loving this series, and look forward to seeing how everything plays out in the next book! Totally recommend for any dark fantasy lovers out there.
I received an advance reader copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
With lots of action, new characters, new lands, and the continuation of a great story line, this book delivers. I’m really loving this series, and look forward to seeing how everything plays out in the next book! Totally recommend for any dark fantasy lovers out there.
I received an advance reader copy from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews